Name: Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 beef shanks (about 2 lbs); 2 medium onions, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup red wine; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp fresh thyme; 1 tsp fresh rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

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The aroma of Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender, succulent beef that effortlessly falls off the bone, bathed in a rich, savory sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience—one that promises to wrap you in layers of flavor and comfort.

I remember the first time I laid eyes (and nose) on this culinary masterpiece at my grandmother’s Sunday dinner. She would whip it up as if she had a secret pact with the universe to make every bite memorable. Friends and family would gather around the table, eagerly awaiting their turn to savor this hearty delight, and trust me, no one ever left hungry or unhappy. Perfect for cozy winter nights or special occasions, Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco is about to become your favorite reason to gather everyone together.

Why You'll Love This Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco

This incredible Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco:

Beef Shanks: Look for well-marbled shanks for maximum tenderness and flavor; they are the stars of our show.
Onions: A couple of medium onions will add sweetness and depth to our braise.
Carrots: Chopped into chunks, these vibrant beauties add color and sweetness.
Celery: Adds aromatic earthiness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
Garlic: Three cloves minced—because who can resist garlic?
Red Wine: Choose a robust wine; it’s not just for sipping but also elevates our dish!

For the Sauce:

Crushed Tomatoes: A can or two brings acidity and balances out the richness of the beef.
Beef Broth: Adds depth; homemade is best but store-bought works too in a pinch.
Fresh Herbs: A mix of thyme and rosemary gives an aromatic boost.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Get those gears turning because we’re about to create magic.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add some oil. Season the beef shanks generously with salt and pepper before searing them until browned on all sides. This step seals in those heavenly juices!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the shanks from the pot and toss in onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until fragrant—around five minutes should do—and oh boy, your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour in a cup of red wine to deglaze your pan. Scrape up those tasty bits stuck to the bottom; they hold flavor like you wouldn’t believe! Let it simmer for about five minutes until reduced by half.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in crushed tomatoes and beef broth along with fresh herbs. Return the beef shanks back into the pot, ensuring they’re nestled nicely in their saucy bath.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover your Dutch oven and transfer it into the preheated oven. Allow it to braise for about three hours or until fork-tender. The anticipation will be worth every minute!

Once your Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco is ready, serve it over creamy polenta or risotto for that extra touch of indulgence. Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

You Must Know About Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco

This showstopping Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To create the best Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco, start by searing the beef shanks until they are golden brown. Then, sauté the aromatics while the meat rests before adding them back into the pot with broth and herbs for slow cooking.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco! Swap out the traditional herbs for fresh rosemary or thyme, or add a splash of red wine for extra depth. You can also toss in some root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for a hearty twist.

Storing & Reheating

To store your delicious Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to maintain its tender texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco

This professional-quality Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco, my friends devoured it and declared me a culinary genius. Little did they know it was just a well-timed slow cooker magic!

FAQs

What is Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco?

Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco is a classic dish that originates from Italian cuisine. It features braised veal shanks, cooked slowly in a flavorful broth made with vegetables, wine, and herbs. The term “osso buco” translates to “bone with a hole,” referring to the marrow-filled bone at the center of the shank. This dish is known for its rich flavors and tender meat, which falls off the bone after hours of slow cooking. Traditionally served with gremolata for added brightness, this hearty meal is perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners.

How do you serve Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco?

Serving Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco can elevate any dining experience. Typically, it pairs well with creamy polenta or risotto, which complement the richness of the meat. Many chefs also suggest serving it atop mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or lemon zest adds color and freshness to the dish. For an authentic touch, include a side of gremolata—this zesty mixture of lemon peel, garlic, and parsley brightens up the flavors beautifully.

What ingredients are needed for Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco?

To prepare Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco, you will need a few key ingredients: beef shanks (preferably with marrow), carrots, onions, celery, garlic, white wine, beef broth, and aromatic herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. Additional seasonings like salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor profile. Optionally, you can add tomatoes for acidity and depth. Gathering these ingredients ensures that your osso buco turns out tender and full of flavor.

Can you make Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco in advance?

Yes, you can make Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco in advance! In fact, this dish often tastes even better when reheated because the flavors meld together over time. To do this, simply prepare the recipe as directed and allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve it again, gently reheat on low heat until warmed through. This makes it an ideal choice for meal prepping or hosting dinner parties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco is a delightful dish that brings comfort and depth to your dining table. With its rich flavors and tender meat falling off the bone, it’s perfect for both special occasions and cozy family dinners. By understanding how to serve it properly and knowing what ingredients are essential, you can create a memorable culinary experience at home. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated later, this classic Italian dish is sure to impress anyone who tastes it.

Slowly Braised Beef Osso Buco